The Best Antivirus Software for Windows in 2021

If you use a PC, you’re a potential target for viruses and malware, so need to have an antivirus program installed to protect you against threats.

Windows 10 is the world’s most popular operating system, and as such, is a prime target for cybercriminals. If you want to stay safe from the latest threats, you need an up-to-date antivirus package. It’s worth noting that Windows 10 comes with built-in antivirus, called Microsoft Defender, and if you practice safe computing, you should be fine sticking with this. However, if you want added protection and bonus features, it’s worth investing in additional antivirus software. Here, we go over three of the best antivirus software for Windows.

Bitdefender Antivirus Plus
This Windows antivirus software is Bitdefender’s most popular consumer package, and offers excellent protection for your PC with real-time monitoring for visues, malware, ransomware and spyware. The interface is easy to use, and from the dashboard you can undertake a quick scan, system scan and a vulnerability scan, which detects poorly configured settings and recommends the optimum ones. Buying Bitdefender Antivurus Plus also gets you the free version of Bitdefender VPN, although you’re limited to 200MB traffic a day. Other neat features include a microphone monitor, webcam protection and a firewall. At £19.99 a year for a one device license and significant discounts if you buy an extended subscription, it’s excellent value for money, too.

Windows Antivirus Software

Kaspersky Antivirus for Windows
Another stalwart of the antivirus industry, Kaspersky Antivirus for Windows offers real-time protection against all types of viruses and malware, including ransomware. This antivirus software scans the system constantly for anything that may be a threat. Where Kaspersky Antivirus is a bit of a let-down is extra features – but the core virus protection is still solid. It is also only £22.49 a year, which is ideal if you’re looking for a budget antivirus program that performs all the basic tasks you’d expect.

Windows Antivirus Software

Norton Antivirus Plus
Norton Antivirus Plus offers real-time protection against threats like viruses, malware, spyware, ransomware, as well as phishing attacks. This antivirus software has received stellar reviews and impressive scores from independent test labs. As with all Norton security products, Norton Antivirus Plus comes with 2GB of online storage, allowing you to protect your most important files; although we’d recommend keeping a full up-to-date backup of your data at all times too. There are also loads of extra features such as a password manager, performance monitoring utilities, and online banking protection. A one-year license is only £14.99 a year, but this does only cover one device, however.

Windows Antivirus Software